PALMA DE MALLORCA — The new Zel Punta Cana will open on Dec. 12, right on schedule.
As Sara Ranghi, Marketing & Brand Management Director, Americas, Melia Hotels International, told Travelweek back in September, the Zel brand offers a vibe geared to “making your life easy, in a Mediterranean way.”
Zel is a collaborative lifestyle brand from Meliá Hotels International and tennis legend Rafael Nadal that blends relaxation, sports and fitness, and social connection. Zel is “inspired by the welcoming homes, outdoor culture, and spontaneous lifestyle of the Mediterranean.”
The brand debuted with Zel Mallorca in 2022, followed by Zel Costa Brava in 2023.
As the first Zel in the Americas, the all-inclusive Zel Punta Cana will offer 190 nature-inspired guestrooms with layouts ranging from 796 to 2152 sq. ft. including Suites, Master Suites, and Swim-Up Suites that feature private gardens that lead directly to the pool. The property is less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and a short walk from Bavaro Beach.
A suite’s swim-up terrace at Zel Punta Cana
Dining options include Parda is a Mediterranean-style buffet; Volcan with its asador grill; Tacorini offering tacos and gyros; and Nokyo with unique blend of Japanese minimalism and Mediterranean charm. The best selection of wines and spirits is available at Silvestre, a winery adorned in natural sunlight and wood furnishings throughout. Guests can also enjoy cocktails at Voltaje. And at The Beach Club, guests can relax with the perfect pairing of excellent food and a lively ambiance.
For active wellbeing, Zel Club encourages a community that shares in a healthy and social lifestyle. Zel Club will host expert-curated weekend retreats that will include the ideal blend of sports and activities, relaxation on the beach, and social connection to the community. Zel Club will also host festivals and day parties to celebrate the opening and closing of seasons, holidays, and just-because occasions.
“We consider Zel to be a true Mediterranean embassy and look forward to introducing our lifestyle experience to Punta Cana,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “Together with Rafa, we decided to embark on this adventure to share our worry-free values and warm culture with our guests around the world. The Caribbean is a destination with an abundance of its own special charm that perfectly complements the Zel brand, creating a holiday retreat unlike any other.”
Weekly daytime programming at Zel Club will blend holistic wellness and entertainment in a social setting that cultivates connection for hotel guests and club visitors alike. Partners leading the weekly activities at Zel Club include industry experts and renowned leaders in the health, fitness, and wellbeing. The hotel will also introduce the Fitness Residency that will consist of a series of exclusive classes and activities including running sessions, pilates, yoga and more, designed for both hotel guests and the public to partake in the active wellbeing activities. Zel Punta Cana will also offer AUA Spa.
